The Miami Dolphins Are Taking A Social Approach To Traditional Press Conferences
Adam Gase, Miami Dolphins Head Coach (Image via Miami Dolphins)
In the age of social media, fans are used to having information at their fingertips. But during press conferences, fans are at the mercy of the media, waiting to see if they will ask the question that is on their mind.
With the Miami Dolphins new approach to press conferences, fans don’t have to rely on the media to ask their questions- they are now able to do so themselves.
In January, the Dolphins introduced a new, socially driven way of conducting press conferences during their introductory press conference with head coach Adam Gase. During it, they had a Q&A on their social media channels as well as a 360 camera on the podium, allowing fans to interact directly with Gase.
Adam Gase, The Dolphins head caoch doing a social press conference on Facebook Live, Periscope and Meerkat. (Image via Miami Dolphins)
For this new social-driven press conference, the Dolphins had fans interact on Facebook Live, Meerkat, Instagram, Periscope/Twitter and Snapchat.
With this innovative way of holding a press conference, fans are able to subscribe to live feeds on the different platforms and are notified when the press conference goes live. It will also appear on the timelines of fans if they follow the Dolphins on Facebook and Twitter.
Once watching the broadcast, viewers can comment on the live feed, which is seen in almost real time by the broadcaster, making it a two-way conversation between the viewer and interviewee.
“We want fans to be able to consume our content the way that they want to receive it. The better access that we can provide, the closer the emotional connection we can build with the fan. Wherever our fans’ eyes are, we’re focused on being there, too. Our approach during the Adam Gase press announcement is a natural extension of this strategy, since we know our fans crave an inside look at the Dolphins whenever possible,” said Jason Jenkins, Miami Dolphins Senior Vice President of Communications and Community Affairs.
Being able to have fans interact during the press conference creates a feeling of community within the organization. Fans are able to feel like they are in the room with the coaching staff and players and they get to hear their questions being answered almost immediately.
This new way of doing press conferences will hopefully become widespread, so that fans of all teams are able to experience the two-way connection that the Dolphins are providing.
“We are consistently looking for ways to innovate and provide compelling content and access for our fans. As platforms continue to evolve, we will evaluate all opportunities to help better serve our fans,” said Surf Melendez, Miami Dolphins Content and Creative Services Managing Director.
